Ipomoea pes-caprae is a creeping vine of the Convolvulaceae family that colonises beaches in tropical regions.
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Description of Ipomoea pes-caprae
Thai name : Phak boung thale (ผักบุ้งทะเล)
Other names: Durand's potato, seaside potato, beach morning glory, goat's foot
It is a creeper that grows on the surface of the ground and extends its long creeping stems from 5 to 30 m long.
It settles in the sand by roots developed at the nodes and forms, on land suitable for its development, large thick mats that help stabilise the soil.
The 5 to 6 cm long flower is pink with purple spots and blooms for only one day.
L'Ipomoea pes-caprae can be found on the beaches of the tropical areas of the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific oceans.
Medicinal properties of Ipomoea pes-caprae
The decoction of the leaves is used against inflammations, rheumatism and cramps.
The crushed young leaves can be used to facilitate the extraction of sea urchin spines.
In many countries, Ipomoea pes-caprae is used as a remedy for inflammation, colic, gonorrhoea and pain.
Brazilian researchers have shown that the methanolic extract of the aerial parts has significant antinociceptive (pain-sensing) activity.
Ipomoea pes-caprae to treat jellyfish stings
This plant, which is found on many beaches in Thailand, also has the property of relieving jellyfish stings, which is very useful for bathers.
If you have been stung, simply take some leaves, crush them and apply the paste to the affected area.
See also :
Medicinal plants in Thailand: Thai names and properties
Dangerous animals to know in Thailand
Source: wikipedia.org ; www.mi-aime-a-ou.com Photos: 1. Patrice78500; 2. B.navez; 3. Pierreto
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